A Birmingham studio dedicated to displaying the work of West Midland artists has benefited from a £78,000 revamp.

Digbeth-based VIVD, an organisation promoting artists working with creative technology, will upgrade 3,000 square feet of floor space at its former-motor-garage home on Heath Mill Lane.

This will include exhibition lighting, digital projectors and a new seating system to support educational events.

The money, which was provided by the East Birmingham North Solihull (EBNS) Regeneration Zone and supported by Advantage West Midlands, has also paid for two mobile 'pods'.

Designed by Birmingham-based architect Ranbir Lal the pods contain wireless digital imaging and audio facilities which artists can use to develop and produce work.

Graham Edwards, chief Executive of the East Birmingham North Solihull Regeneration Zone, said: "I am delighted that this grant will help to nurture and showcase local artists'

work and at the same time encourage the growth and retention of creative businesses within the West Midlands region.

"The Digbeth area of Birmingham has become synonymous with the creative arts and this project contributes to the continual regeneration of the area, turning an abandoned garage into a vibrant hub for the creative industries."

Yasmeen Baig-Clifford, director at VIVID said: "The support from Advantage West Midlands will help us to create a much needed exhibition space for media art in Birmingham. Recognition of the importance of artists and the creative industries in economic regeneration is growing.

"VIVID's ambitious new programme of work will make a key contribution to the renaissance of the area and we intend to be at the forefront of changing attitudes and growing expectations amongst both artists and audiences in the West Midlands." ..SUPL: